The Buttonwood Tree: A Nonprofit Arts Center in Middletown

The Buttonwood Tree began as a bookstore in Middletown's North End in 1989. The bookstore hosted regular performances, but it wasn't strictly an arts venue. That changed in 1991 when, with the help of Middletown's Commission on the Arts, the book shop became a nonprofit organization dedicated solely to the performance arts.

The Buttonwood Tree has moved more than once, but one thing always remains the same: it offers free or, at the very least, affordable entertainment to the people of Middletown. The proof is in its calendar of upcoming events, which has something going on almost every single day. You'll often see musicians on the schedule at The Buttonwood Tree, as well as art exhibits, but you'll see the occasional stand-up comedian or public class coming up here, too, so keep your eyes peeled.